Thanks, as always, to my betas, Kristi and Lisa. Special thanks to Kristi for her Polyvore skills. She's been hunting up outfits for all of Bella's special occasions. She's much better at it–her eye is less trashy, more classy than mine. Her mind on the other hand…
This chapter is dedicated to AngelaSampedro99 who left me my 900th review. Thank you! Let's see how much everyone likes EPOV. Could it put me over 1000 reviews?
Chapter 21 – God, I Want You…
EPOV
After making sure that Emmett and Rosalie would keep an eye on Jasper I turned to Bella.
"You wanna dance?"
She smiled. "Sure." I was glad that she wasn't going to beg off the way she tried to at the Gala.
I reached out and took her hand so I could lead her through the crowded club more easily. Reaching the dance floor, I maneuvered my way through until I found a small space near the center. The crowd required that we stayed close together, and I wasn't complaining. Bella was simply beautiful tonight, and I was lucky enough to be the one she was rubbing up against every time the crush of dancers shifted. To keep her close, I held her by one hip and pulled her opposite hand to my shoulder
The music was so loud that conversation wasn't possible, but Bella seemed to be more comfortable with this style of dancing than she was with our ballroom foray. She certainly took my body cues well. When the flow of people around us would ebb, she would press her hips against me and lean her head and shoulders away. I had to reach my arms around to support her in this position and I thoroughly enjoyed the feeling of her body when it was pressed against mine like this. Every now and then she'd be gently pushed against me by an enthusiastic dancer and I'd step back to give her room.
People who knew I was an investor would approach from time to time. Because of the loud music our conversations were short, but I thanked each one with a nod or a few shouted words. Several greeted Bella and I could see her curious expression.
"Well-wishers," I said, by way of explanation.
She nodded her understanding as we continued to dance. I was ready for a drink after a particularly wild song ended and was about to suggest we head back to the table when Timbaland's Scream blared through the speakers.
The slow, sensual beat didn't appeal to as many dancers as the more raucous numbers, and I felt the area around us open up as some people left the floor. It was still crowded, but Bella and I weren't pushed up hard against each other anymore. We continued to dance only holding each other lightly. The music was seductive and sexy. Suddenly, Bella fell against me as some drunken fool stumbled into her. Instead of stepping back after regaining her balance, she slid one hand around my neck. We were now pressed together from knee to shoulder.
What's this? I wondered.
Bella dropped her chin and looked up at me through her lashes. Her look was…challenging. I swallowed as I tried to figure out what she was doing.
So won't you scream at the top of your lungs…if your body's feeling right.
It seemed that Bella was embracing the whole "cat's out of the bag" situation to its fullest. This was confirmed when she wrapped her other hand around my neck, as well. We were practically welded together.
And you're the designated driver, yeah, I'm not afraid cause I'm a rider, yeah, ain't nothing wrong with feeling right.
If she was ready to play this game, then I was ready, too. Reaching for her, I placed my hands on her hips and spun her slowly so her back was to my front. She never lost her grip around my neck. In this position she couldn't help but feel the way her body was affecting me as her swaying ass came into contact with my rapidly hardening cock. I reaffirmed my promise to myself to find someone on Friday night who could help me out. I slid one arm down her hip and let it rest on the outside of her thigh. I snaked my other arm around her waist and pulled her against me tightly.
Goddamn she felt good.
Cause when it feels good, don't fight it, if you like it. Don't fight it if you like it.
We rocked against each other like this. Hell, if we were naked we'd be fucking right now. Suddenly, our intimate contact overwhelmed me and I found myself leaning into her ear.
"Turn your head."
I was somewhat surprised when she did as I said, turning her face towards me. Her lips were poised just before mine. I was about to close the infinitesimal distance between our mouths when she rose up on her toes and pressed her lips to mine. I was shocked. Could she be feeling this, too? I recovered quickly and began rubbing slow circles from her thigh to her hip while we kissed languidly over her shoulder.
If it feels good, why don't you scream?
Suddenly, she pulled away from our kiss. I could hear her gasping for air and smiled. I knew she was feeling it, too! To hide my ridiculous grin, I buried my face in her hair and pressed tiny kisses to her neck. Her already harsh breathing got louder until she was practically moaning.
Maybe I wouldn't have to wait until Friday. Hell, maybe I wouldn't have to wait until we left.
There was something wrong with my line of thinking, but for the life of me, I couldn't focus enough to figure out what it was. I relaxed my hold on her so that I could turn her in my arms as the song ended. I raised my head and caught her eye.
"God, I want you…" I whispered. We could barely hear each other when shouting, so there was no way she could hear my barely murmured declaration. Instead of repeating myself, I attempted to show her what I wanted. I lowered my head and captured her lips once more as the driving beat of the next song started.
Her lips were warm and I had an incredible desire to taste her. I ran my tongue against her lower lip and hoped she'd grant me access as she had earlier tonight when I kissed her in front of her former employer. I was gratified when she opened for me. My tongue explored her mouth gently. I was enjoying the taste of Bella and wine when I felt the tip of her tongue touch mine. The taste of her combined with the feel of her velvet tongue overwhelmed me and I stopped dancing so I could concentrate on the experience, tangling our tongues together. I could feel a vibration in her mouth that could only be a moan. I ran my hands up and down the length of her sides and could feel her rubbing her hands from my neck, down my back and up again. I was about to suggest taking this somewhere more private when someone shoved into me hard from behind.
Whoever that was was going to die.
Our kiss broke off and I could feel Bella start to fall as I stumbled into her. I tightened my arms around her and remained still until I was sure she had regained her balance then before spinning in place, keeping her behind me. I shouldn't have been surprised by who had shoved me, but I was.
Tanya stood in front of me and she was pissed. One look at her face and I could tell that she seemed to have forgotten that as far as the public was concerned, she dumped me. She was about to cause a scene and destroy her carefully planted story. I wouldn't put it past Tanya to take a swing at Bella. Before the thought fully registered, my arm shot out behind me in a warding gesture, trying to keep Bella out of the line of fire.
I watched as Tanya's focus shifted. Instead of looking at me, she was now peering over my shoulder. I groaned silently to myself. Bella had risen to her tiptoes and was now clearly visible behind my back.
This was not going to be pretty.
"You whore!" Tanya shrieked, trying to barrel straight through me to get to Bella. That wasn't going to work. I caught the hysterical woman in my arms and started walking forward carrying her away from Bella. I hoped. She wouldn't follow me, would she?
I glanced back to see that Bella was, indeed, following us. What was she thinking? My picking up Tanya hadn't stopped her caterwauling anyway; now she was trying to reach around me with flailing arms, screaming incoherently the whole time. Suddenly, she kicked out, her foot connecting with my shin and her knee connecting with my balls. My breath left me with a "whoosh." I dropped her instinctively as my knees came together and I bent in two before dropping to my knees. It hadn't been a full-fledged kick, but hurt like a bitch anyway. I heard a few nearby guys groan in sympathy as Tanya stormed up to Bella. I wanted to call out a warning but my throat had tightened in response to my pain. I couldn't move and I couldn't yell. All I could do was watch.
EmPOV
There was a scuffle on the dance floor. I could hear some chick screaming her fool head off and the communal moan that often sounds after some poor guy's taken a hit to the junk. I stood up to get a better look at what was happening.
The music was still blaring, but much of the dance floor had cleared. No one was dancing and a large circle was open in the middle. As I watched I could see one person go down. It took a moment for me to realize the guy on the floor was my brother. Before I even processed this fact, I had vaulted over the railing delineating the VIP section and used my considerable bulk to muscle my way through the crowd.
Where the hell were the bouncers, I wondered? If I could get here this fast why couldn't they?
I looked at the other participants in this brawl and was shocked into immobility. As far as I could tell Edward had been taken down by his ex-skank, Tanya. She was currently stalking Bella, a crazed look in her eye. For her part, Bella was observing Tanya coolly. There wasn't a trace of fear on her face as she watched the hysterical woman who had just taken down a man fifty plus pounds heavier than her.
Tanya's shrieking was changing, becoming more coherent.
"You whore! Fuckin' slut! What are you doing here with my boyfriend?"
Bella didn't answer. I did see her eyebrow rise at Tanya's description of Edward as her boyfriend. Her lack of response seemed to incense Tanya even more.
"I asked you a question, you fat cow! Who the fuck do you think you are?" Bella had started circling as Tanya approached her, forcing the nut job to follow her. Bella's hands came up defensively, her arms spread wide. I'd seen enough wrestling back in college to recognize the gesture.
The bouncers had finally arrived but instead of subduing the circling pair they worked crowd control, keeping others from joining the potential fray. Of course, two hot chicks battling it out over Chicago's #1 Most Eligible Bachelor? You couldn't buy this kind of advertising.
As the brother of the guy still lying on the floor I was pissed. As an investor, though, I could appreciate their dilemma.
When it became obvious that Bella wasn't going to be drawn into a shouting match, Tanya lost what little control she'd managed to scrape together. Screaming incoherently once more, she charged Bella. Bella stood firm, ready to take the hit. As Tanya reached her, Bella quickly stepped to the side allowing Tanya's momentum to carry her right past her position. When Tanya was a step beyond her, Bella put her hand on her back and shoved--hard. Tanya went sprawling face down on the dance floor. She was momentarily stunned, but got to her feel fairly quickly. Bella hadn't pressed her advantage, instead allowing Tanya to regain her feet.
Tanya spun quickly and looked back at Bella, who still hadn't uttered a word. A calculating look came into her eye.
"What's the matter, slut? Got nothing to say for yourself? How long have you been fucking my man?"
That accusation seemed to snap Bella from her silence.
"You broke up with him." It was a simple statement, uttered quietly, but easily heard over the now lowered music. It seemed to draw Tanya up short.
For a moment she was silent, but then a shrewd look came over her face.
"I knew he was seeing someone else!" Tanya shouted, "That's why I broke up with him!"
Before Bella could reply Tanya launched another attack. Bella had seemed to be off guard, but reacted to the assault with practiced ease. As Tanya charged her, Bella grabbed her arm and pulled, twisting Tanya's arm behind her own back, turning her so that her back was against Bella's front. It was a very painful position. She snaked her other arm around Tanya's neck and pulled her close. The belligerent woman froze.
I took advantage of this break in the action to go to Edward's side.
"Can you get up, man?" I asked. Edward nodded and held out his hand for assistance. I reached out and pulled him up.
When he was on his feet I leaned over and said, "What the fuck happened?"
Edward shook his head, eyes fixed on the scene before him.
Tanya was immobilized by Bella's hold. She'd inflict considerable pain on herself if she tried to struggle while Bella held her this way. Edward stepped cautiously towards the two women, both hands held in front of himself in a calming gesture. If it were me, I'd be holding my hands over my balls.
"What's your problem, Tanya?" Edward asked, menace in his voice. "You broke up with me. I've only been seeing Bella a few days, you have no reason to attack her."
"You promised!" she wailed. It was as if she'd forgotten there was an audience. I had no idea what Edward had promised her.
"It's not like you waited." He was approaching the two women. Another step or two would put him in striking range of Tanya's legs, should she decide to kick out.
I could see the color drain from her face at Edward's declaration. There hadn't been any pictures, but a friend of Rose's who had known that Edward was seeing Tanya, but didn't know they broke up, saw Tanya and some guy hooking up at a party. Rose told Edward. He'd thanked her for her concern, but saw no reason to pursue the issue since he counted himself lucky just to be rid of her.
Edward had finally reached the pair. He stepped smoothly to Bella's side and whispered something in her ear. Bella cocked her head and nodded. She released Tanya with a hearty shove that once again sent her sprawling to the floor. Edward quickly wrapped his arm around Bella's waist and pulled her away as Tanya struggled to her feet once more.
The music, which had quieted down considerably during the altercation, increased in volume. Two equally skanky girls ran up to Tanya and she tried to salvage what was left of her dignity. The bouncers glanced around and, seeing no more signs of trouble, began letting dancers return to the floor. The crowd surged around me as I made my way back to our table in the VIP section.
I got back just in time to hear my wife compliment Bella on the fight.
"You are fierce, bitch! Where did you learn to fight like that?" I shook my head. My Rosie was a tiger.
Edward was signaling Tia for another bottle. Jasper continued to sleep, oblivious to the lessening drama. Bella reached for her wineglass and took a sip before answering.
"My dad was Chief of Police of my hometown. He taught me all kinds of defensive moves when I was living with him." Her cheeks were flaming, but I couldn't tell if she was angry, embarrassed or feeling the effects of her drink. "I don't know how effective the moves would be against a guy who's bigger than me, but they work with someone my own size." There was a hint of pride in her voice.
Tia approached the table with another bottle of Scotch, interrupting the conversation, and poured three glasses for Edward, Rose and me. Bella waved her off before she could pour one for her.
"Well, Bella, I knew that there was something about you I liked," Rose continued, "I like a girl who can take care of herself, especially against a skank--sorry Edward-- like Tanya Denali."
Edward just shook his head slowly at Rose's characterization. He was staring at his glass. Bella shifted uncomfortably. I realized that my wife's compliments were making Bella ill at ease. Shooting back my drink, I said, "C'mon, babe, let's dance," and grabbed my wife, pulling her from the seat, leaving Bella and Edward to babysit Jasper.
BPOV
I was relieved when Emmett and Rose left the table. I just wanted to put this whole humiliating experience behind me. Edward was being very quiet and I feared that I was about to get fired. He had known that a scene was likely once he realized his ex was here, but I don't think he expected me to get physical with the woman he had once had feelings for.
"I'm sorry, Edward," I said quietly, gazing at my wineglass. He didn't answer me. I steeled myself for the inevitable look of disgust before turning to look at him.
He was looking at me, but the look on his face wasn't one of disgust, it was…incredulity? I met his gaze and waited for him to say something.
"What are you sorry for?" he asked. He wasn't accusatory. Actually, he seemed…confused.
"For that scene. I'm sorry I knocked your girlfriend down. Twice. I know that's not what you hired me for. Am I fired?" This last bit escaped before I had a chance to censor myself.
His eyebrows rose as he looked at me. "Fired?" He paused and then let out a sharp bark of laughter.
Color me confused.
"Fired? Oh, Bella, I should give you a raise! You were incredible. You did a great job of handling yourself in a situation I had no right to expose you to. See? This is what I mean! You're extraordinary. I could not have asked for more."
I didn't know what to say. I breathed out a small, "Oh," before looking away.
"I'm just sorry I wasn't more help."
"You couldn't have very well helped me, Edward. How would that have looked; you manhandling your ex? It's probably for the best that you were out of commission."
I paused. "Are you okay?"
He snorted and shook his head. "Yeah, I'm fine." He cleared his throat as if he were about to say more, but Jasper suddenly stirred next to me, drawing both our attentions.
"Jazz? Hey man, you okay?" Edward asked in a concerned voice.
Jasper only groaned in response to Edward's question so I tried.
"Jasper? Jasper? Are you okay?" I touched his hand lightly. His eyes fluttered open at the contact.
"Bella?"
"Hey, Jasper, yeah, it's Bella."
"So shorry, darlin'." His voice was low and breathy.
"It's okay, Jasper. I understand. How do you feel?"
"She left me, Bella. I feel like shit."
I patted his hand more. "I'm so sorry."
Jasper closed his eyes once more and his head dropped back. I thought he had fallen asleep again when he suddenly spoke, "I don't know what to do."
"I think you should go home and get some rest. Things will look better in the morning." I glanced over at Edward. I had no idea how Jasper was going to get home. He obviously couldn't drive.
Edward nodded and got up quickly. He leaned down near me and squeezed my hand before placing a quick kiss on my cheek. "I'll be right back," he said before disappearing into the crowd.
I sat there next to Jasper, neither of us talking before he broke the silence.
"She was cheating on me; with her boss. Fuckin' Peter." At this declaration he laughed a bit hysterically. "That'sh funny! She was fuckin' 'fuckin' Peter'."
I grimaced, there was nothing funny about his statement, but he obviously needed someone to listen to him.
"Jasper, it will be alright."
"No, no it won't, Bella. It'll never be alright again. She was my life, ya' know? We've been together shince grad school. I wasted over five years of my life on her." He held out five fingers. "I don't know how to love anyone else,' he added sadly.
He brought his head down to the table and rested them on his folded arms. He was quiet and still so it took me a moment to realize he was actually crying. His distress was bringing tears to my eyes.
"Oh, Jasper." I reached out and patted his shoulder. With a shuddering sob he grabbed me around the waist and buried his head in my neck, continuing to cry. I rested one hand on his back and the other on the table in front of me.
"He always was an emotional drunk." I was so wrapped up in Jasper's misery I hadn't heard Edward approach. I gave him a panicked look, silently begging him to rescue me from Jasper's suffocating embrace.
Edward offered me his hand and I took it with the hand I had resting on the table. With his assistance I was able to slide out from the booth. Once I was standing Edward released me and turned to Jasper.
"C'mon, man. Aro's got a car waiting for you. You need to go home. Maybe take the day off tomorrow."
"Edward!" Jasper said loudly.
"Yeah, man, it's me." Edward stepped back as Jasper made his way out of the booth.
"She left me, man."
"I know. We can talk about it when you're feeling better."
Jasper threw his arms around Edward shoulders, hugging him tightly. "Hold on to her, man," he said, in a loud conspiratorial whisper, pointing to me, "she's one of the good ones. Don't let her go."
Edward was staggering under the bigger man's practically dead weight. I scooted to Jasper's other side and put my arm around his waist in an effort to help Edward. As soon as he realized I was there, Jasper unwrapped one arm from around Edward's shoulders and put it around mine instead. I staggered a bit as some of his weight rested on me.
The two of us began walking Jasper towards the back of the VIP section, where I assumed there was an exit Jasper could use. The entire time we were walking Jasper kept up a drunken monolog.
"You two…there's shomething about you two. I have a feeling…." Jasper attempted to pat himself on the chest, but only succeeded in pulling me in front of him since he hadn't let go of my shoulders yet. He stumbled over me in this awkward position. It was all I could do to keep myself on my feet.
"You two are great together. Jusht great. She'sh sho much better than that bitch, Denali, man. I dunno what you ever shaw in her. She musta been a firecracker in bed." Jasper laughed.
Edward was grimacing, but I couldn't tell if it was the conversation or the exertion that was causing him pain.
We reached a nondescript door. "Here we are, Jazz. Time to go home. A man dressed all in black opened the door and hurried out in front of us. Idling at the curb was an unassuming dark-colored sedan. The man in black opened the door. Edward and I continued trudging across the sidewalk, finally depositing Jasper in the backseat. Edward ducked his head inside and spoke briefly with the driver before stepping back and rejoining me on the sidewalk. The man in black slammed the door and the car pulled away immediately.
I heaved a sigh. "Poor guy," I murmured. Edward looked at me, shaking his head slowly. He let out a breathy chuckle.
"Are you okay?" he wanted to know.
"I'm fine. I just feel so sorry for him. He's miserable." We turned and walked towards the open door at the back of the club.
Edward nodded. "That he is. I think he'll be fine, though. These last few weeks with Charlotte have really screwed with his head. Now that he knows he can get back to living."
He continued, "Can I ask you something?"
"Certainly."
"Why was Jasper apologizing to you?"
"A misunderstanding, really. He hasn't been very nice to me since we met." Edward's eyebrows rose. "He admitted that he was suspicious of me, of my motives with you. He was afraid I'd sell you out to the highest bidder. He apologized for his assessment. I think we'll be good from now on."
"I'm sorry, Bella. I didn't know that he was giving you a hard time. I'll talk to him the next time I see him."
"There's really no need. Like I said, it was a misunderstanding."
We walked through the door and into the club. The pulsating music surrounded us as we made our way to our table.
"I hate to ask you for anything else tonight, Bella, but could you do me a favor?"
"What's that?"
"Would you drive my car back to the office? I'll need to drive Jazz's car."
"Oh, okay. Sure." I sat back down at our booth and slid over to make room for Edward, who sat beside me and poured himself another drink, which he quickly raised to his mouth.
Edward heaved a big sigh and cast his eyes to the ceiling. It looked like he was struggling with himself. I gave him a moment to work through whatever was bothering him.
He pursed his lips and shook his head. Instinctively, I laid my hand on his arm, trying to offer whatever comfort I could. Edward's head turned and he eyed my hand for a moment. Then, without warning he pulled me to him in a crushing embrace. My head turned automatically and I sought out his eager lips.
He kissed me hard pulling me across him so that I was seated on his lap, my legs together resting across the bench where I had been sitting just a moment ago. Without thought, my hands traveled to his hair, my fingers twining themselves in his perpetually messy coif. One of his hands traveled from my shoulder, down my back before settling on my hip.
It was in this rather compromising position that Emmett and Rosalie found us. Their juvenile whistles, shouts and comments pulling us from our make out session.
I tucked my head into Edward's chest to allow myself a bit of recovery time. That was unexpected… and enjoyable. These public displays of affection were a real perk to the job, I had to admit.
The rumble in his chest let me know that Edward was saying something to his brother, but I couldn't make out what. I raised my head in time to see Emmett shrug, dismissing whatever it was Edward had been saying.
"I need to go to the bathroom," I interjected, reaching over for my bag. Edward released me and helped me stand. I made my way across the VIP section, followed closely by Rose.
Entering the bathroom this time was different than earlier in the evening. People were looking at me and pointing. I could see eyes following me as I entered the stall. More eyes found me when I left. I washed my hands and made my way to the lounge area. I reapplied my lipstick and smoothed my hair while waiting for Rose.
She joined me a moment later. She made a pretense of fixing her makeup, but her eyes never left mine in the mirror. She finished her adjustments and leaned over to me.
"We need to talk, but this is not a good place. Give me your cell."
I handed her by Blackberry and she quickly programmed her number into my phone. She even took a quick picture of herself and set it as the caller ID.
"Give me a call tomorrow. I'll be around all day."
I nodded at her uncertainly. Rose glanced at her watch.
"It's almost 1 AM. Emmett and I need to get home. C'mon, I'll walk you back to Edward."
We made our way through the crowd. Edward and Emmett were involved in what appeared to be an argument, but they quieted down quickly as we approached. Edward stood and helped me back into our booth. Rose raised an eyebrow at Emmett. He sighed and nodded.
"Okay," he said. I smiled at their unspoken communication. He stood next to his wife.
"Bella, it was great spending more time with you. I hope to see you around again soon." He reached over for my hand and kissed it lightly.
"Goodnight, Bella. Remember what I said about tomorrow." She turned to Edward. "Goodnight, Edward."
"Rose," Edward said with a nod.
They turned and began making their way across the VIP section and down the stairs. I watched until they were out of sight and then turned to Edward.
"Is everything okay? You and Emmett seemed to be arguing."
"Just business, Bella. He's unhappy with something I've done recently. We were discussing it. Ultimately, he agreed that it was my decision to make."
He hadn't really given me any information so I couldn't comment, but I got the impression that he was being intentionally vague.
"Are you ready to leave?"
"Of course."
Edward slid out of the booth and I followed him. He found Aro in the crowd and said goodnight before leading me out. We waited for the valet service to bring around the cars. It was freezing outside. The silky pashmina offered almost no protection from the cold night air. I admit I was a little disappointed that Edward didn't put his arm around me or offer me his coat to keep me warm.
Silly girl, that's what men do for their real girlfriends, not for the women they pay to escort them around.
Edward tipped both valets when the cars were brought around. I slid into his Aston Martin and strapped on the seat belt. The seat warmers were on and warm air was already wafting through the vents. I sighed and checked my mirrors before pulling out of the lot behind Edward.
It was only a short time later that we were pulling into the garage. I got out of Edward's car and waited. Edward was on his cell phone. Who could he be talking to at this hour? He hung up and jumped out of the car before walking over to me.
We got on the elevator in silence and made our way to his office. I went into the dressing room and quickly changed my clothes. Carefully, I placed the earrings in their box and brought them out of the changing room with me. Edward was sitting at his desk looking over some files when I emerged. He didn't look up at me when I came out. I walked to his desk and laid the box near his elbow.
"Well, goodnight, Edward. I had a good time this evening. Thank you."
"Goodnight. Um, Emmett asked me to remind you that about lunch with my mother on Thursday. I'll have Ms. Weber email you the address and directions."
"Okay."
I turned and made my way to the door of his office. Pushing it open I walked over to the elevator. I'd half expected him to offer to drive me home, as he had on our other late nights. You're being stupid again, Bella. You're not his girlfriend. You're just going home after work. No one's boss drives them home after work. I tried to remember the Night Owl schedule – where I'd have to go to get a bus home this late. I sighed and resigned myself to calling a cab.
Pausing in the reception area I pulled out my phone.
EPOV
I heard Bella on the phone in the reception area. I got up from my desk quickly and made my way to the closed door trying to hear who she could possibly be calling at this hour; it was just after 2 AM.
"Hello, yes, I need a cab."
Shit! What the hell was I thinking? It was so late. Did buses even run this late? I should go out there and offer her a ride. No, it would look weird if I offered her a ride now. I should have been paying more attention earlier.
I listened quietly at the door, making sure that she was able to make arrangements.
"Yes, okay, I'll be waiting in the lobby. Thank you."
I heard the elevator chime as it opened and a moment later I heard the door close.
Dammit!
The evening had been going so well—except for the knee to my 'nads. Bella and I were really hitting it off. Then my freakin' brother had to go and ruin it.
Bella and I had just sat down after helping Jazz into the car. She had been her usual amazing self all night—the fight with Tanya, dealing with Jasper's drunken ramblings. My adrenaline was still pumping from our kiss earlier on the dance floor. When she put her hand on my arm I just lost all control, pulling her into my lap and kissing her hard.
Things were just getting interesting when we were interrupted by Rose and Emmett acting like teenagers, hooting and making crude jokes. Bella and I broke apart. She buried her head in my chest and I shot my brother and sister-in-law a look that clearly said, "Piss off."
When they didn't take the hint I said it out loud.
Rose left with Bella when she excused herself. Emmett decided to sit down.
"What the fuck are you doing?" he wanted to know.
"What are you talking about?"
"Edward, I know the whole 'escort' thing was my idea, but I think you're making a mistake here. You should have looked for a professional. There have got to be discreet ones around."
"What's wrong with Bella?" I demanded.
"Nothing. That just it. Don't you see? She's perfect and you're paying her to date you. It's offensive. You should just ask her out, man. Do it right."
"I don't have time for a girlfriend, Emmett. I explained that to Bella when I interviewed her. Besides, Bella needs this job. What should I do, fire her?"
He shook his head and sighed.
"There's got to be some other position she can take in the organization. One where she doesn't report to you directly?"
"And where does that leave me? I don't want or need a girlfriend Emmett, least of all someone like Bella."
"What's wrong with Bella?" I got the impression this conversation was going around in circles.
"Didn't I just say that?"
"Ha. Ha. I'm serious."
"So am I. There's nothing going on between Bella and me. She's just playing her part."
"And you? Are you just playing a part, too?"
I was spared having to answer by the girls' return.
Emmett and Rose shared some silent conversation and the next thing I knew they were leaving. Emmett kissed Bella's hand by way of parting. Rose was curt with her goodbye. She made some cryptic remark about tomorrow to Bella and then they were gone.
I decided it was time for us to leave as well. Bella agreed. I found Aro, thanked him again for helping with Jasper and wished him goodnight, assuring him I'd be back on Friday.
Bella and I made our way through the crowd and out to the valet stand. It took a few minutes for our cars to be pulled around. We didn't speak. Emmett's words were chasing each other around in my head and I couldn't deal with speaking to her right now. He was wrong. There was nothing inappropriate about what I was doing. I had no designs on Bella outside her usefulness to me as a date.
That's not true, a small voice in the back of my mind said.
I thought back, again, to our kiss on the dance floor. That's what the kiss in the booth had been, my attempt to reignite the heat that we generated earlier. My thoughts were anything but appropriate while we were kissing on the dance floor. I had wanted her in all the wrong ways. She wasn't just some random girl or even my girlfriend. She was my assistant and the person I paid to spend time with me socially. There could be nothing more to our relationship than what we already had. I needed to remember that—keep that in the front of my mind.
We needed to keep our relationship professional.
I shook my head as I booted up my computer. Emmett had called me on the ride home. Sure, he was pissed at me and I wasn't happy with him, either, but he wanted me to know what Rose had already found on the internet. I quickly typed in the website address he had given me.
I was immediately greeted with a picture of Bella and myself from tonight. The article was below it:
Cullen's Mystery Girl Revealed
Dateline: Chicago
As fast as he came on the market he seems to have come off. It has been discovered that Edward Cullen's newest gal pal is one Bella Swan.
Information about Bella is hard to come by. Who is she? How did she meet Edward Cullen? How long have the two been dating? However, it is obvious that he has known her for some time. Several pictures of Edward and Bella have surfaced recently. The photograph below was taken outside Cullen Enterprise's Fortune Party, which happened on October 15. In it Bella is cozy, wearing Edward's jacket to ward off the late night chill.
The other pictures show Bella and Edward as they attended his father's hospital's annual Charity Ball on October 24. Bella paused briefly to answer questions about her dress before being led into the venue by Edward.
Trustworthy sources tell us that Bella was involved in an altercation with Cullen's ex-girlfriend, local socialite, Tanya Denali at the opening of Chicago's newest nightclub, Stroke of Midnight. Edward Cullen, along with his brother, Emmett Cullen, is an investor in the popular new hotspot. Details are sketchy, but our source confirms that the altercation was both verbal and physical in nature. Denali was seen leaving the club early, while Bella and Edward were seen leaving significantly later in separate cars.
Subscribe to this story to be alerted to updates as they're available.
I clicked the subscribe button and entered my personal email address before sitting back and closing my eyes, trying to clear my head of the thoughts racing around. I was mostly successful.
BPOV
I had been up around an hour puttering around my place, deciding what I was taking with me to Angela's when my phone rang. I didn't recognize the number, but knew the exchange was the one used by Cullen Enterprises.
"Hello?"
"Um, hello Bella, this is Jasper Whitlock."
"Oh, good morning, Jasper. How are you today?"
He let out a shaky sound, somewhere between a laugh and a moan.
"As you can probably imagine, I've had better mornings."
"I'm sure you have."
"Anyway, that's what I'm calling about. I wanted to thank you for last night. You were very kind to me when you really had no obligation."
"You needed some kindness last night."
"That I did, darlin', that I did. Anyway, I wanted to let you know that I appreciated it. Also, I wanted to remind you that the opening on Friday is a costume party."
I honestly hadn't given the opening on Friday another thought. I didn't think that Jasper would remember his guilt driven invitation.
"Umm, I'm not really sure about Friday, Jasper."
"Did you have other plans?"
"No, no plans, it's just that I'm not really sure I should be there, after what happened last night."
"What happened last night?"
"There was an…incident with Edward's ex. It wasn't pretty."
Jasper let out a harsh laugh.
"I wish I remembered that. Are you okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine. She didn't hurt me."
"Well, be that as it may, I want you to come. And bring a friend. You're name will be on the list. We'll probably be sitting in the same spot as last night. I promise I won't fall apart again. You won't be stuck taking care of me."
"Oh, that's not it at all—"
Jasper cut me off, "Then it's all settled. Show up around nine. See you Friday, Bella."
"See you Friday."
Jasper disconnected the call. I stared at my phone for a moment before scrolling through the contact list and pressing the call button.
"Alice Brandon's office."
"Good morning, Riley, it's Bella."
I pulled the phone away from my ear as he let out an ear-piercing shriek.
"Bella, baby, it's good to hear from you girlfriend! You looked fabu last night!"
"Riley, how do you know what I looked like—"
"Girlfriend, when are you going to learn? You're news, baby. Check the sites. You still have the bookmarks I set for you?"
"Of course."
"Well, boot up, sweetie. They managed to suss out your name, I see. Are you coming in today? Alice has your outfit for lunching with Lady Esme. It's gorge, of course."
"Actually, I do need to talk to Alice. Is she available?"
"'Fraid not, sweetie. She won't be here 'til after lunch. Come early—we'll nosh. I'll order from the deli. Kiss, kiss!"
With that, Riley was gone. Once again I found myself staring at the phone.
Sighing, I looked over at the clock. I had about three hours to shower, dress and get to Alice's. I grimaced at the thought of my shower. Honestly, I was quickly becoming spoiled. A few showers in Edward's office and staying dirty almost sounded more appealing that washing off in my shower. Almost.
Resigning myself to the unpleasant experience, I showered thoroughly. I selected one of Riley's outfits—dark wash jeans, a beige sweater and brown, fuzzy boots. I booted up my laptop and checked the sites Riley's had saved for me. And there we were. One site had managed to put the pieces together and had shots of Edward and me from the Fortune Party, the Gala and last night. I read the short article and was gratified that it didn't have more details.
I clicked on the link to subscribe to the story. I checked my email and saw a note from Angela, it included the details for my lunch with Esme and some chatter about the apartment. She told me that I was welcome to move in over Thanksgiving if I had the time. I wouldn't start paying rent until the first, but I thought that taking advantage of moving in while she was away at her brother's wedding was a good idea. Then I wouldn't be inconveniencing her. And, the thought of being out of my apartment was extremely appealing. Then again, I had no one to help me move. Hiring movers for the little bit of stuff I had was silly. I'd have to think about this some more.
Gathering up my things I headed out the door and to Alice's office. When I walked into Riley's office he was on the phone. His face lit up when he saw me and he motioned for me to sit. He waved a hand towards the Chai tea and mimed pouring myself a cup. I smiled and helped myself before sitting back down.
I was paging through a magazine trying to ignore Riley's highly inappropriate, highly personal conversation when there was a knock on the door. I glanced over at him. He was digging through a drawer on his desk. He waved a few bills towards me and I took them and walked to the door. Paying the delivery boy, I took the bags he was carrying. I walked over to a table in the office and began spreading out Riley's purchases. It was quite a spread.
"…I need to toddle, sweets, the HBIC is due in any moment. Ta!"
He turned to me.
"Bella. I knew those boots would do things for you. Uh-may-zing!" He slid over to me and kissed my cheek before sitting down and spreading one of the paper napkins in his lap.
"Help yourself, darling," he waved his hand over the food.
"Let me give you something to help pay for all this," I started before Riley cut me off.
"No, no! Lunch is on La Alice. She'll be here shortly."
I quirked an eyebrow but served myself some soup, tuna salad and crackers from the various containers. I could see Riley looking at me and knew he was busting for details about my night.
He spoke nonchalantly about a few of Alice's more famous clients and again complimented my look last night.
Finally, I took pity on him.
"What do you want to know, Riley?"
He dropped his plate, excitedly, and leaned forward. "What HAPPENED? I need to know. The article only said a verbal slash physical altercation. From the looks of you she didn't even get in one swing. Spill, Chiquita! I want all the details."
I recounted the evening's events from Tanya shoving Edward while we were dancing, to her accusation that I had been sleeping with Edward when they were still together. I ended by describing how I shoved her onto the floor a second time before Edward escorted me back to our table.
You couldn't ask for a better audience than Riley. He listened, wide-eyed, clucking and tutting in all the appropriate places. He applauded me a little at the end.
"I'm so proud of you."
"Thanks." I shook my head. It was hardly something to be proud of.
"I do have one question, though."
"What's that?"
"She just walked up to you out of the blue? You weren't doing anything to set her off? The woman needs serious antipsych meds, but even she would have needed a little incentive."
"We may have been kissing."
Riley smiled. "May have been?" His tone was leading.
"Okay, we were kissing. On the dance floor. A lot."
"Score!" Riley held his hand out for a high five. I reluctantly tapped his hand.
"Describe every detail. How's he taste? Is he a sloppy kisser? There's no way. Not with the stick he's got shoved up his…"
Alice walked in at that moment interrupting Riley's chatter.
"Bella! Great to see you."
"Hi, Alice." I smiled. She walked over to us and took in the lunch spread and looked at Riley questioningly.
"What?" he asked innocently. "It's an occasion. Bella was just going to describe, in detail, what it's like to go tonsil deep in Edward Cullen. Happy birthday to me!" He clapped his hands excitedly.
"Your birthday is in July."
"I know. But I didn't know Beautiful then. She's just giving me my present late."
Alice smiled and shook her head. "I'm going into my office. Finish your lunches. And Riley, don't you dare pack this stuff up and take it home. Put it in my fridge, I'll have it for dinner since I paid for it."
"Bitch."
"Right back atcha."
Alice winked at me. "Bella, take your time. I need to make a few phone calls and then I'll get your outfit."
"Thanks, Alice. I need to talk to you about something else, too."
"Another event?"
"Sorta'."
"Okay. Just come in when you're done."
"Will do."
Alice left and Riley turned back to me with pleading eyes.
"Sorry, Riley. A nice girl doesn't kiss and tell."
"Who's been filling your heads with delusions, dear? You're no nice girl. I bet you like to get down and dirty." He said this last bit with a comical arch of his eyebrow and the two of us dissolved into hysterical giggles.
"Okay, fine. Be that way."
I just smiled and shook my head. Our conversation drifted to fashion. Riley may be just an assistant but he really knew his stuff.
"Would you ever consider going out on your own?"
"Probably not. I'm more than willing to leave the heavy lifting to Alice. I know that one day Alice Brandon will be a very famous woman. Stylist isn't the end of the line for her. She'll own a design house one day and I'll be happy being her right hand man. So to speak."
He smiled at this last and I think I finally caught a glimpse of the real Riley. The over-the-top persona he displayed was just an affectation. Ultimately, he was comfortable with who he was and played the part that was expected of him. Alice was lucky to have him.
"Thanks for lunch, Riley. The food was terrific."
"Glad you liked it, sweetheart. Now, go chat with the Head Bitch and let me get back to work."
I helped pack up the leftovers and carried them with me into Alice's office.
She was on the phone, but smiled when I came in. I put the package I carried into the fridge. I went to sit down, but she waved her hand over to a garment bag hanging on a rack on the other side of the room.
I walked over and unzipped it. I was a little surprised by the outfit in there. Plain black pants were accompanied by a shiny, deep purple blouse. A small box on the bottom of the bag contained a pair of round-toe, low-heel, black shoes. It was a very professional look, except for the startling color of the top.
I loved it.
I heard Alice hang up and looked over at her.
"What do you think?"
"It's fabulous, Alice. How do you do it?"
She smiled and waved her hand from side to side. "It's a gift."
"You'll need to wear pearls with it, I think. Simple and classy. She stood up and walked over to a small cabinet. She pulled out a strand of graduated pearls and pearl drop earrings.
"These'll do. I should have had Edward order real ones, but there's no time now. Sorry."
"It's fine," I told her, slipping the jewelry into my bag.
"So, you said you had another event?"
"Um, yeah. I'm not sure you can help me with this, though."
She cocked her eyebrow at me. "What do you mean?"
"Well, for one, I wasn't invited by Edward and I'm not sure your services extend to events not arranged by him. Two, it's not an outfit I need so much as a costume. And three…I'd need you to actually come, too."
Alice had a questioning look on her face.
"I'm confused. You need to start at the beginning. Where are you going and who invited you?"
I explained to Alice the stuff that happened last night that didn't make the gossip sites.
"Oh! That's why it said you left in separate cars. I couldn't figure that one out."
"Yeah. Jasper's important to Edward and now that he seems to be warming up to me I'd feel bad ditching his invitation. But that doesn't mean I'm comfortable with it. And, he insisted I bring a friend. And you…you're a friend. At least, I think of you that way. I hope you'll come, if you're available."
I looked up at her, suddenly shy. I hadn't had a real girlfriend since college.
She smiled at me warmly.
"Of course I think of you that way, Bella. I'd love to come, actually. I enjoy a night out as much as the next person. Besides, I want to meet the guy alive today whose name is Jasper." She giggled a little and shook her head.
I heaved a huge sigh of relief.
"Thank you." I hugged her impulsively. She froze for a second and then returned my hug with surprising strength.
"So, what were you thinking as going as?"
"I have no idea, Alice. I haven't dressed up for Halloween in years."
"Do you know what Edward's going as? Maybe you should match his outfit."
"I don't even know if Edward knows I'm going. He didn't mention it, and Jasper is the one who invited me; as a thank you."
Alice nodded thoughtfully.
"Are you going to tell him?"
"I don't think so, Alice. I mean, he was acting a little weird at the end of the night. I'm not sure why and I think I need to give him some space."
"Weird? In what way?"
"He was almost cold. He didn't offer me a ride home. I know that sounds stupid, I'm an employee and it's not like Edward drives all his employees home, but it was very late and I was a little worried about riding the bus at that time. Besides, he's driven me home every time we've been out late. I ended up calling a cab." I shrugged.
"Hm, I wonder what was up?"
"No idea. He seemed to be enjoying the time we were spending together. And then there was all the kissing…."
Alice's eyebrow shot up.
"Oh?" she commented in an unusually high and curious voice.
I laughed. "Sorry, Alice. Like I told Riley, I don't kiss and tell."
Alice pursed her lips, stood up and approached me. She sat next to me on the couch. "Bella, we're friends."
I nodded.
"So you will tell me every single detail. There will be no 'don't kiss and tell' bullshit here. I'm not Riley. Spill."
The look on her face was determined and I briefly considered spending the last of my carefully hoarded cash on a cheap costume from the party store down the street. One more look at Alice, however, convinced me that even rescinding my invitation wouldn't get me out of this conversation.
I shared the details of the kisses Edward and I had shared. I went into a little more detail on our dance floor kiss than I probably should have. When I explained exactly how I knew Edward was "enjoying" our time together she sat back. I continued the recap of the night, but Alice stared into the distance and didn't comment.
"Alice?" I had finished my story, but Alice still hadn't looked at me.
"Alice?"
"Hm? Oh! Sorry, Bella. I was just thinking. So, Friday, umm, why don't you come here around seven? I'll have your costume ready. We can leave from here. I'll drive and I'll make sure you get home, no matter how late it gets."
"Okay. What costume will I wear?"
"Uh, I'll have to think about it a little bit. Don't worry, though, I'll preserve your modesty. No hooker costumes." She said this last with a wide grin. I was pretty sure she was serious.
"Listen, can I give you a bit of advice about tomorrow?"
"Tomorrow? My lunch with Esme. Sure."
"Esme Cullen is a very well-respected woman. Knowing her can do wonderful things for you. Don't try to be someone you're not, but be the best 'you' you can be. I have a good feeling about tomorrow."
"What, exactly, does that mean?"
"I get feelings sometimes, Bella. I think that tomorrow will be important for you. I just want you to go in there with a positive attitude and an open mind."
"Okay, Alice." I smiled at her enthusiasm.
"Great. Listen, I do have another appointment coming in here today, so I need to get back to work, but I really enjoyed talking with you. We have to do this again."
"I'd like that."
"Okay, then. I'll see you here on Friday." Alice stood and hugged me again. I gathered my things, including the garment bag, and headed out the door with a cheery goodbye.
"Take care, Riley. I'll see you soon."
"Bye, Bella! Enjoy your lunch tomorrow."
"I'm sure it won't compare to lunch with you today."
"Of course it won't, but try to have fun all the same."
I chuckled and left the office. Butterflies descended as I closed the door. Alice's feeling about tomorrow had me excited and worried at the same time. I was determined to take her advice, however. I would do all I could to impress Esme Cullen tomorrow and that meant taking advantage of an offer already on the table. I grabbed my phone and scrolled through my phone book to find Rosalie's number.
- - - - -
Happy New Year, everyone! First, I need to apologize to everyone who received a review reply from me for chapter 19. I promised the kiss from EPOV, the catfight, two important conversations and lunch with Esme. Well, Edward seemed to enjoy waxing poetic about the kiss and it was hard to cut him off. Instead of skimping there I'm moving Esme's lunch into the next chapter.
Do you mind if I make a few recs?
Go and read anything written by AHizelm. She's fan-damn-tastic. She's also a juggler. She's got like 90 WIPs and collabs and they all update regularly. She's also wrote a one shot called "Simple Kind of Man" that is going to be made into a full-fledged fic. The banner for the fic damn near stopped my heart. Gah!
Also, another fave author of mine, skeezon, has an amazing Tattward story that's just coming to its climax. The story is called "Open Mic Night." She updates twice a week, without fail. Go. Read and review, 'cause she promised a smutty outtake if she reached five hundred reviews and I really want to read it!
Finally, a bit of personal news--I got to meet the lovely and talented socact this week. If you check my profile page, you'll see the link to her story, "Same Time Next Year." I had the privilege of reviewing that story for the Perv Pack's Smut Shack a few months ago. She's a lovely woman—brilliant and beautiful. I'd be jealous, but she's such a sweet person there's no way I could associate any negative feeling with her. Go, read her stuff and send her some love.